Migraines and Headaches
Headaches are a common problem these days. Some people might suffer occasionally, while others may experience them more regularly. Whether it’s a tension headache or a migraine, a headache can be so incapacitating as to render a person non-functional for a length of time. Fortunately, there are solutions to help eliminate or at least reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.
Here Are Some General Tips:
- Take regular breaks from screens
- Pay attention to your posture: don’t stay in a static position for too long
- Move! Physical activity can help decrease symptoms
- Lower your stress (through yoga, meditation, cardiac coherence, etc.)
- Breathe through your stomach as often as possible
These little tips can make all the difference for some people. However, a few physiotherapy sessions can go a long way to decrease symptoms, especially for people who have been suffering from headaches for a long time.
How Are Headaches and Migraines Assessed in Physiotherapy?
- Evaluation begins with a subjective assessment where the physiotherapist asks the patient questions about their symptoms (onset, type, duration of headaches, presence of aura, concussion history, etc.)
- Then, the objective examination assesses the various systems that might be involved (such as neurological exam, cranial nerve assessment, cervical mobility, muscle tension, and muscular control of shoulder blades).
- Finally, the physiotherapist will explain their analysis to the patient and will make recommendations and home exercises to help improve their condition. If time permits, the physiotherapist will then perform a number of manual techniques to help reduce symptoms. These techniques (joint mobilization, muscle and myofascial release, among others) will be put into practice during follow-up appointments.
For any headache and/or migraine problems, our physiotherapists will be happy to take care of you and help you with their expertise in the field. An osteopathic approach may also be beneficial. Your physiotherapist will refer you if they deem it necessary.
A Little Advice Before Your First Appointment
Your symptoms might be exacerbated following the evaluation. So don’t plan too many strenuous activities after your first session.